Which Way is Down
Scott K. Johnson is a 31-year-old native Minnesotan. He was born into a working class family in April of 1975. His mother was a nurse for 30 years and his father a painter. In April of 1980, at the age of 5, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Like most type 1 diabetics, Scott has struggled with diabetes and the lack of support and resources for this disease. As a means to find support and connect with those in similar situations, Scott created his own website which chronicled his daily struggles, thus the evolution of his blog. Scott’s blog caught the attention of an Editorial Assistant at dLife and here begins his work as a contributing writer in the Viewpoints section on dLife.com. Scott works in St. Paul, MN for a medical device company and is married with two children, ages 3 and 6.
It’s hard to cross things off of a lifelong task list.
Motorcycle
Ignoring the variables we can control can be an accident waiting to happen.
Wise Teacher
Even after all this time, we still have so much to learn.
Tools Are Tools
Making use of advanced diabetes technology tools and old-fashioned determination.
Hungry Muscles
Working out a plan while on the move – literally!
Habit
Making adjustments to create a healthier big picture.
Waiting Period
The struggle to treat a low blood sugar without going overboard.
The Emotions of It All
Acknowledging and managing the emotions of diabetes.
A Letter in the Mail
Diabetes and health insurance means jumping through more hoops.
My Wires Are Crossed
Recognizing and dealing with confusing feelings.
The Routine
The comfort, peace of mind, and power of repeat actions.
Wait – Isn’t That Backwards?
Gaining control by raising the blood sugar bar.
Dominoes
How each diabetes moment tips into the next.
The Snowflake Factor
It takes different “diabetes math” for each person with diabetes.
The Diabetes Roller Coaster
Daily management can throw blood sugars and emotions for a loop.
Nighttime treatments with favorite foods impair weight loss efforts.
To Celebrate or Not Celebrate?
Diabetes diagnosis date can be chance for reflection and change.
Motivation Revival
It takes a team to create, work management plan.
Readying Every Resource
Acknowledging and accepting the link between diabetes and depression
Self-Made Scientists
The daily routine of monitoring diabetes requires a variety of hats.
No Rest for the Worried
Managing blood sugar during sleep can be a shot in the dark.
Feeling Judged
Dealing with anxiety, guilt, and numbers.
It Is OK to Need Help
Getting a grip on diabetes may mean having to let go of male pride.
Disclaimer
dLife's Daily Living columnists are not all medical experts, but everyday people living with diabetes and sharing their personal experiences. While their method of diabetes management may work for them, everyone is different. Please consult with your diabetes care team to find out what will work best for you.